I received a call a few weeks ago from a person looking for advice. They were trying to figure out the best way to communicate a delicate issue. It was important to get the message across, but they were concerned they might be overstepping their bounds. Should they talk to another colleague to help? Should they be subtle? Should they try and find a clever way to have the person “find out” the information?
My advice was simple. Don’t be creative. But clear. Get in front of the person and talk to them directly about the issue.
As speaker and author Brene Brown would say, “Clear is kind.”
In this world of (seemingly) unlimited communication options, the choice can be overwhelming. Should I send an email? Should I text? Maybe I could message them on Facebook. Just like in the grocery store, when there are too many options, we often make no choice at all. So in a world where there are more communication tools than ever before, clear communication can often be missing.
The message is clear. If you want to have a real relationship, clear communication is critical. It’s why there are some many advantages to “seeing the people” in sales or starting a business. When you can actually speak directly to your customer, and see their real reaction, it is powerful.
Additionally, I am a believer in being clear with your ask. Gary Vaynerchuk talks about this in his book Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook. In this book, the Right Hook, was the ask. If you are going to sell…sell. Don’t try to make it look like you are not. The prospect or customer will see through it. If are trying to give value…just do that. Don’t mix the message.
If you want to give. Give.
If you want to sell. Just ask.
Remember. Clear is Kind.
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